Docklands is part of the lower Yarra River, Birrarung delta. It was a rich wetland area that was inhabited by several Aboriginal communities. The area was historically used for shipping and construction of Victoria Dock which began in the late 1880s. This was the busiest dock for Melbourne between the early 1900s and the late 1950s when the construction of newer ports to the west made Victoria Dock redundant. Docklands fell into disrepair between the 1960s and 1980s. Work to create Docklands as we know it today began in the 1990s.
The landscaped gardens of Docklands Park on Harbour Esplanade were created in 2005 as part of the revitalisation of this area. The park is an ideal destination for families, city workers and picnickers with free barbecue facilities, a children’s playground, public art, and relaxing areas to sit. There are walking paths, large grassed spaces with native trees and a wetlands area.